Obituary of Leonard Dale Lee

Leonard Dale Lee, of Crest Hill, passed away peacefully at the age of 68, on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Lightways Hospice, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born in Joliet, IL, on September 8, 1956, the son of the late Lawrence and Frances (nee Jones) Lee.  Leonard attended Lockport High School and retired from Caterpillar after more than 30 years as a welder. After retirement, Leonard started his “bonus career” at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, where he enjoyed being a chauffeur for the residents. His decision to retire full-time and stay home was guided by the love he had for his wife, as he became her full-time caregiver.

Leonard will be remembered for being a “Jack of all trades”, able to fix anything and everything.  He always had a great sense of humor and a story to tell. His love for his family was evident to all who knew him.  

Leonard is survived by his two daughters, Jennifer (Timothy) Koss and Amanda (Jason) Nedelsky; four grandchildren, Alexis and Paige Nedelsky, and Joseph and Matthew Koss; and siblings, Pam Mathis, Charles Lee, David (the late Joann) Lee, Steve (Barb) Lee, Mary (Dan) Horvat, and Richard Lee. 

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Judith; his parents; brother, Kenneth Lee; and his wife’s parents, John and Audrey Donnelly.

Visitation for Leonard will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, from 3:00 p.m. until the time of Funeral Service at 7:00 p.m.  As it was his request, cremation rites will be accorded after services and interment will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to Lightways Hospice would be appreciated.

For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.